Static Analysis of the Hydraulically Actuated Reversing Mechanism of a Reversible Agricultural Plough

Abstract:

Reversible ploughs are modern agricultural implements that allow ploughing operations to be carried out with increased efficiency by turning the furrows in the same direction, regardless of the movement direction of the tractor–plough unit. Their functionality is ensured by a reversing mechanism, typically actuated by a hydraulic cylinder, which rotates the movable frame by 180° around the tractor's longitudinal axis at the end of each pass. This paper presents a static analysis of such a mechanism, with the objective of determining the distribution of mechanical stresses, displacements and equivalent deformations, as well as the safety factor of the main structural components. The applied methodology included defining the three-dimensional geometric model of the reversing assembly and performing numerical simulation using the Finite Element Method (FEM), with the SolidWorks Simulation software. The calculation assumptions considered the maximum load generated by the hydraulic cylinder during the rotation phase, with proper application of contact conditions and mechanical constraints. The results highlighted equivalent stresses, calculated according to the Von Mises criterion, below the allowable limits for the materials used, displacements and deformations within functional limits, and safety factors ranging from 2.1 to 3.5 for critical components (rotation shaft, support frame, and cylinder attachment points). The conclusions of the analysis confirm that the mechanism’s design is appropriate for the static loading conditions encountered during regular agricultural operation.

• Periodical: Advances in Science and Technology (Volume 181)
• Pages: 127-133
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-JgbJE6
• Online since: August 2026
• Authors: Daniel Lateș*, Paul Tripon, Eugen Marin, Dragos Manea, Laurențiu Constantin Vlăduțoiu
• Keywords: Hydraulic Reversing Mechanism, Reversible Agricultural Plough, Static Structural Analysis

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